'America needs you': James Comey sends a heartfelt message to Andrew McCabe and other FBI officials

Former FBI director James Comey gave a message of support to former deputy director Andrew McCabe on Monday night.

McCabe stepped down from his post earlier in the day amid reports of an internal investigation and mounting criticism against the FBI.

Former FBI director James Comey gave a message of support to deputy director Andrew McCabe, following his resignation earlier on Monday.

"Special Agent Andrew McCabe stood tall over the last 8 months, when small people were trying to tear down an institution we all depend on," Comey said in a tweet. "He served with distinction for two decades. I wish Andy well."

"I also wish continued strength for the rest of the FBI," Comey continued. "America needs you."

McCabe's resignation comes amid a new report that FBI director Christopher Wray had informed him of an upcoming inspector general report on the department's handling of an investigation into then-secretary of state Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server. The FBI has been criticized by President Donald Trump and other Republican lawmakers for allegedly being politically biased against Trump in its investigations.

Wray reportedly suggested that McCabe move to a different job within the department, a move that would have been interpreted as a demotion, according to a former law enforcement official. But instead of taking the offer, McCabe, who was eligible to retire in a few weeks, stepped down.

McCabe's decision comes amid a flurry of reports on the Trump administration's displeasure with the FBI and the US Justice Department amid the ongoing Trump-Russia investigation. Wray reportedly threatened to resign after being pressured by Attorney General Jeff Sessions to fire McCabe.

On Monday, it was also reported that Trump vented to McCabe and mocked his wife, a failed Democratic Senate candidate in Virginia, during a phone call immediately after the president fired Comey.